MGE and other Wisconsin utilities currently rely primarily on coal, oil and natural gas—nonrenewable fossil fuels—for generating electricity. When these fuels are burned, they emit carbon dioxide and other emissions that impact our environment.

Renewable resources, such as wind and solar, are constantly replenished with few environmental impacts. But wind turbines and solar systems are more expensive to build and do not generate as much electricity per dollar of investment as conventional plants.

Required renewable energy
All electric utilities in Wisconsin are required to use some renewable resources in their electric fuel mix. All electric customers pay the costs for this power. In 2008, under the requirement, 1.73% of MGE's electricity will be from a renewable fuel source. By the end of 2015, Wisconsin utilities must increase their mix to an overall average of 10% renewable energy.

Voluntary renewable energy
MGE customers have asked MGE to do more. Since 1999, MGE has provided extra wind power for about 4,300 customers who choose to pay more for clean energy options. Because we consistently have a waiting list for this green power, we are significantly expanding the amount of renewable energy available in 2008 to give more customers an option to participate. 

Green Power Tomorrow
MGE's voluntary green pricing program, now called Green Power Tomorrow, will allow the average MGE residential customer using 600 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month to offset the carbon dioxide emissions generated from their electricity use for $6 per month. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin has approved a 1 cent per kWh extra cost, less than half the cost of our previous wind power program.

Most of the new green energy comes from wind farms—two located in Wisconsin (including MGE's first wind farm in Kewaunee County) and one in Iowa. A small amount will come from solar electric systems located in our community.

MGE's renewable resources

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